Research suggests that the conversation itself is the factor responsible for driving impairment

New Zealand Transport Minister Steven Joyce was reported recently as commenting that a ban on text messaging while driving is "an absolute no-brainer". We agree. There is overwhelming evidence that both reading and sending text messages while driving is highly dangerous. Furthermore, survey research carried out at the University of Auckland indicates that this behaviour is extremely widespread in New Zealand.

We also welcome the announced ban on using hand-held cellphones while driving. However, we are most concerned that using hands-free phones while driving will be exempt from this ban. The problem with this course of action is that a large body of research evidence has shown that conversing on a hands-free phone while driving is just as risky as talking on a hand-held.

The effects of cellphone use on driving performance and crash risk have been examined in more than 30 scientific studies. The findings have been clear: talking on a cellphone impairs driving, and similar impairments are seen with hands-free and hand-held phones.

We are aware that this conclusion is surprising. Research suggests that the conversation itself is the factor responsible for driving impairment - rather than the physical demand of holding and manipulating the phone.

“Experts: Hands-free phones just as risky as hand-held”, NZ Herald, 8/18/09.